2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz began selling its 2019 A-Class — a new entry luxury sedan that brings plenty of value for the sticker price, and should provide a solid offering in corporate fleets as a sales-perk vehicle to supplement the CLA and C-Class sedans that now fill this role.

First, a bit of history. The German automaker had been selling the A-Class in Europe as a coupe, and will offer this fourth-generation model around the globe and in the U.S. for the first time. A long-wheelbase version will be sold in China.

Skeptics might ask why Mercedes-Benz needs another entry sedan in the U.S., but this model provides some differentiation from the longer, slopier-roof CLA and sportier C-Class. This platform allows the automaker to load it full of tech, while keeping its starting price in the low $30,000s.

Simplified Engine Lineup

With the vehicle's powertrain, Mercedes-Benz is following the old adage about doing a thing very well. Its sole model, the A220, is available with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 188 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It's linked with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that delivers power to standard front-wheel or 4Matic all-wheel drive.

We tested a model with 18-inch wheels. For an extra $500, you can add the 19-inch AMG wheels.

The ride dynamics of the sedan are generally good, and the vehicle responds well during cornering maneuvers.

Interior Features and Technology

Mercedes-Benz stuffs the A-Class with plenty of standard tech and interior features you'd expect on pricier models.

Sitting in the driver's seat, you will notice its pair of 10.3-inch screens that display a range of data and entertainment on a single piece of glass, which floats on the dashboard above three turbine-style vents.

The clean, bright screen provides a "Wow" moment for the infotainment system called MBUX that was first added to the third-generation Sprinter van and has been rolling out on refreshed models. The center console includes a track pad that's fairly easy to use, but to minimize distraction drivers should gain familiarity with it before using it on the road.

2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Specs:

• Engine: 2.0L turbo I-4 (188 hp, 221 lb.-ft.)
• Transmission: 7-speed automatic
• All-wheel drive: Optional 4Matic
• Cargo space: 8 cu.-ft.